top of page

Hello!
Malcolm's Story
Malcolm Allan has spent his career at the cutting edge of place branding and economic development. After graduating from the Glasgow School of Art and Reading University with a focus on town planning and regional development economics, he began his journey as a Senior Planning Officer for the Central London Planning Conference. His career then progressed as he took on roles as Principal Consultant on major projects in Northern Ireland and various boroughs in London, and served as CEO of the Sussex Training and Enterprise Council.
Later, as the CEO of Kent Training and Enterprise Council, he implemented the ‘Global Partnership’ of cities in eight countries, fostering trade and cultural relations. In 2002, he founded "Place Brands," the world’s first agency dedicated to developing brand strategies for cities, regions, and countries. Through Place Brands, Malcolm had the opportunity to advise organizations and governments worldwide, including ING Bank and the governments of Botswana and Israel. His work took him to places like Kuala Lumpur, Taipei, Singapore, and St. Petersburg.
In 2012, he launched "Placematters Ltd," focusing on major projects in Cork City Region, City of Perth, Glasgow Airport, City of Waterford, and other brand renewal strategies across Europe and the UK.
In 2018, Malcolm joined Bloom Consulting as President, contributing to developing nation brand strategies in Australia, Paraguay, Jamaica, and Costa Rica. His passion for place branding led him to collaborate with Dr. Giannina Warren and Middlesex University to develop the Masters Degree in Place Branding. This program, along with The Place Brand Academy offering CPD-accredited skills training in place brand development and marketing, represents the first of its kind globally.
Over the span of his 40-year career, Malcolm has made significant contributions to strategy, leadership, economic development, and training programs in the evolving place branding space.
Now, in the later stages of his career, he is dedicated to educating and informing professionals about the intersection of climate change mitigation and city branding. He frequently writes and presents on topics such as sustainability, risk management, anti-fragility, and urban resilience. His goal is to inspire and educate those aiming to make a positive difference in the cultural, social, economic, and reputational aspects of places both locally and globally.
bottom of page